This is the Northern Laos chapter from Lonely Planet's Laos guidebook.

In northern Laos, at every turn, convoluted rivers curl eccentrically through layer after layer of mountain ridges, while the former royal capital of Luang Prabang forms the region's unquestionable tourism magnet and is by far Laos' most magical city.

• zip-line high above forested valleys and into rustic tree-houses on the unique Gibbon Experience
• maps
• participate in a homestay with some of Laos' last traditionally costumed tribal families on a trek out of Phongsali
• transport
• do some wat-hopping and market-shopping in regal Luang Prabang
• restaurants & accommodation

Coverage includes: Luang Prabang & around, The Middle Mekong, Huay Xai (Hoksay) & around, Pak Beng, Tha Suang, Hongsa, Muang Ngeun, Sainyabuli (Xaignabouri) & around, Xieng Khuang & Hua Phan Provinces, Phu Khoun, Phonsavan & around, Sam Neua (Xam Neua) & around, Muang Ngoi District, Nong Khiaw & around, Muang Ngoi Neua (Ban Ngoi Kao) & around, Udomxai (Oudomsay, Muang Xai) & around, Boten, Luang Namtha (Namtha) & around, Muang Sing & around, Phongsali Province, Pak Nam Noi, Muang Khua, Phongsali & around and North of Boun Neua.